Acute Myelogenous Leukemia

Introduction

Leukemia is a cancer of the white blood cells and bone marrow. The bone marrow is the spongy inner part of bones where blood cells are made. White blood cells arise from the marrow and circulate in the blood. Leukemia is characterized by uncontrolled growth of blood cells. In acute leukemia, immature, functionless cells accumulate in the marrow and blood. The marrow often can no longer produce enough normal red and white blood cells and platelets.

Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is the most common leukemia in adults with some 10,100 new cases annually. AML accounts for just under half of cases of childhood leukemia. Although leukemia starts in the bone marrow, it can spread to the blood, lymph nodes, spleen, liver, central nervous system and other organs. It does not usually form a solid mass or tumor.

Risk factors can include smoking, radiation or chemical exposure, prior chemotherapy and certain pre-existing conditions or infections. Numerous symptoms, from bruising to bone or joint pain can give a physician reason to test for AML.

Treatment is directed toward achieving complete remission and usually consists of chemotherapy conducted in two stages. The first stage is to induce remission and the second stage it to destroy any remaining leukemic cells.

Remember that any cancer diagnosis is frightening; the support of family and friends is critical, and many support groups are available to patients and their families.

Learn more by ordering your MediFocus Guidebook on Acute Myelogenous Leukemia, the most comprehensive, up-to-date source of information available. You will get answers to your questions, including:

• What are the risk factors of Acute Myelogenous Leukemia?
• What standard and alternative treatment options are available?
• Where are the leading doctors, hospitals and medical centers that specialize in Acute Myelogenous Leukemia research and treatment?
• What are the results of the latest clinical trials?
• Where are the support groups and additional resources in my area?
• What are the promising new treatments on the horizon?

You won't find this combination of information anywhere else. Your health matters. Don't leave it to chance. Arm yourself with the most comprehensive, up-to-date research available by ordering your MediFocus Guidebook today. Click here to preview the MediFocus Guidebook on Acute Myelogenous Leukemia.